Today at Town Hall, 39 new Canadian citizens were welcomed at a citizenship ceremony hosted by the town in partnership with Citizenship and Immigration Canada. Oakville’s newest Canadians come from 12 different countries.
“On behalf of Mayor Burton and Council, I congratulate our newest citizens. It is inspiring to see the diverse backgrounds of those joining our country and helping to build a stronger Canada,” said Councillor Tom Adams.
Judge Ted Salci presided over the official citizenship ceremony. The candidates were welcomed by Bob Ball, representative for MPP Kevin Flynn and MPP Indira Naidoo-Harris; Councillor Adams; and veteran, Andy Barber.
“We are a community known for its fiscal strength, its desire to build and maintain strong infrastructure and facilities and its ongoing protection and celebration of its natural and cultural heritage. I encourage all new citizens to get involved and to experience everything Oakville has to offer. We are a welcoming community and Oakville is committed to being accessible to everyone,” added Councillor Adams.
Each year, people from around the globe choose Oakville as their new home. The town plays a key role in supporting new residents through recreation, transit, library and other services. The Oakville Public Library (OPL) offers programming for new residents including finding employment, citizenship test preparation as well as resources to improve language skills. The OPL also offers a growing number of print, audio and DVD materials in languages other than English for both children and adults.
To assist residents who speak a language other than English, the town subscribes to Language Line, an over-the-phone interpretation service that provides interpreters in more than 150 languages. This service ensures that whether in person or by phone, residents will receive great customer service. In addition, the town’s website uses Google Translate, an online translation tool that allows residents and visitors to read the information provided in the language of their choice.